The Pulse | March 2025

Dear members, partners, technology enthusiasts, and friends,

We’ve spent the beginning of the year planning, strategizing, and laying the groundwork for an exciting year ahead. Now, we’re thrilled to share what’s next! Our policy efforts are in full swing as we track key legislation that will shape the future of Nebraska’s innovation landscape. At the same time, we’re launching our Tech Talks series, bringing Nebraska’s top tech leaders directly to you—offering candid insights, real conversations, and invaluable networking opportunities.

At Tech Nebraska, we believe in the power of connection, collaboration, and action. Whether you’re joining us at an upcoming event, engaging in policy discussions, or looking to deepen your involvement, there’s never been a better time to be part of Nebraska’s growing tech community.

Read on for the latest updates, and as always, I’d love to hear from you!

Cheers,

Laurel Oetken

Tech Nebraska Executive Director

Tech Talks: Conversations with Nebraska’s Leading Tech Innovators

Curious about the future of Nebraska’s tech industry? Connect directly with the leaders shaping it! Our new Tech Talks series brings you face-to-face with Nebraska’s most influential tech executives for candid, unfiltered conversations about the challenges, innovations, and ideas driving our industry forward.

• What keeps a CIO up at night?
• Where is tech heading in Nebraska?
• What does it take to lead in today’s fast-changing landscape?

Join us for candid, interactive conversations with Nebraska’s top tech minds:

• March 25: Daragh Mahon, EVP & CIO, Werner
• April 17: Danielle Egr, CTO, Nelnet
• May 29: Chris Dill, VP & CIO, Kiewit

Bring your questions, expand your network, and see innovation up close. We hope to see you there!

Register Now

Tickets are free for Tech Nebraska members and $20 for non-members.

Key Legislation We're Watching

Of the 700+ bills that were introduced, we’re keeping a close eye on several technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship-related bills that will impact technology businesses large and small. Here’s an update on how a few prominent bills are advancing:

• LB642: The Artificial Intelligence Consumer Protection Act. This bill introduced by Senator Elliot Bostar (29) of Lincoln proposes the Artificial Intelligence Consumer Protection Act to safeguard consumers from algorithmic discrimination in high-risk AI systems. Tech Nebraska testified in opposition to this bill on the February 6th hearing. Currently, the bill is still within the Judiciary Committee for additional discussion and review.
• LB504: Introduced by Senator Bosn, the Adopt the Age-Appropriate Online Design Code Act aims to require technology companies to be more upfront with data collection, and requires protections for minors on apps. This bill was adopted by the banking and commerce committee, moved to general file within the legislature, and moved to select file, meaning the bill can be considered with additional amendments before being brought forward for a final vote.
• This week, the Appropriations Committee reviewed budget proposals for the Department of Economic Development. Tech Nebraska engaged on two key issues: a proposed $5 million cut to the Business Innovation Act and potential changes that could sunset the Intern Nebraska Program—both critical to driving innovation, jobs, and wage growth in the state. We’ll continue discussions with key legislators and remain hopeful these programs will sustain long-term opportunities for Nebraska.

We’ll continue to keep you informed every step of the way as bills advance! If you’d like to learn more, Silicon Prairie News sat down with our Executive Director to discuss the additional bills we’re monitoring.

Learn More

Tech Nebraska Expands Leadership with 2025 Advisory Board Appointments

Tech Nebraska is proud to bring together 22 top technology leaders from across the state to drive innovation and strengthen Nebraska’s tech ecosystem. Representing industries from manufacturing and agriculture to healthcare, our advisory board plays a vital role in shaping our strategic direction, guiding policy priorities, and ensuring Nebraska’s technology sector continues to thrive.

In 2025, we’re excited to welcome five new members, including CIOs from Great Plains Communications, Nelnet, Monolith, and Ameritas, along with the COO of Pinnacle Bank.

Read the Announcement

News You May Have Missed

We gathered the biggest tech headlines that happened in Nebraska this month

• Tech Nebraska Blog: How AI Is Reshaping Nebraska’s Biggest Industries
• Launch LNK announces its 2025 cohort of startup companies, each receiving $20,000 to support their business growth, along with valuable resources.
• Lt. Governor Kelly announces winners of the 2nd annual New Venture Competition
• Nebraska Startup Academy joins forces with Scale Omaha to support startup founder speaking series
• Great Plains Communications CIO, Katie Curtis, joins Tech Nebraska’s Strategic Advisory Board
• Nebraska Examiner: How Trump’s tech agenda could impact hiring this year

Grow. Connect. Lead. Join Tech Nebraska.

Be a part of the movement shaping Nebraska’s tech future. Join our growing network of innovators, leaders, and companies working together to strengthen Nebraska’s technology and innovation ecosystem.

Learn how a Tech Nebraska membership can benefit you and your business, or reach out to Laurel Oetken to explore ways to get involved!

Explore Membership